Back in the Day

Sept. 8, 1892 — An early version of “The Pledge of Allegiance,” written by Francis Bellamy, appeared in “The Youth’s Companion.”

Last spike ceremony

Sept. 8, 1883 — Northern Pacific Railroad president, Henry Villard, held what was actually the second ceremony driving the last spike of the line at Independence Creek as an international public relations event for dignitaries and reporters from across the world, bringing attention to Montana’s economic possibilities.